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Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 118 reviews
  • Author: Sarah
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This creamy and indulgent Chicken and Spinach Casserole with Cream Cheese combines tender, seasoned chicken breasts with sautéed spinach and a rich cream cheese mixture, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. It’s a comforting and flavorful baked dish perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or cozy meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables and Cheese

  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole does not stick during baking.
  2. Prepare Chicken Cutlets: Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally to create four thin cutlets. Pound the thicker ends until the thickness is even to allow for uniform cooking.
  3. Make Marinade and Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Toss the chicken cutlets in this marinade, then cover and refrigerate for 15-30 minutes to infuse flavors.
  4. Sauté Spinach: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
  5. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Stir in the wilted spinach, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese if using. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
  6. Sear Chicken (Optional): For added flavor and color, optionally sear the marinated chicken cutlets in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side until golden.
  7. Assemble Casserole: Arrange the chicken cutlets evenly in the prepared baking dish. Spread the cream cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken. Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is melted and lightly browned on top.
  9. Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and the dish to set.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, sear the chicken before baking to add a caramelized crust.
  • Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier topping or shredded mozzarella for better melting and browning.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice sharpness to the casserole.
  • Ensure chicken is cooked fully by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Chicken casserole, Cream cheese casserole, Spinach chicken bake, Easy chicken dinner, Comfort food

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Find it online: https://everydaytastes.com/chicken-and-spinach-casserole-with-cream-cheese-recipe-3/